It was hard going with the ball but Ireland upped their batting game in an improved display against tournament hosts South Africa.

South Africa's opening stand of 209 between Andrie Steyn (117) and Suné Luus (83) ensured that it would be an insurmountable target that would be set for the Irish girls.

Ireland did enjoy success at the latter end of the South African innings, taking wickets as the hosts tried to press home their advantage. The result was that the final total although a huge one, was less than looked possible and indeed likely at one stage of the innings.

Ireland's reply started at a brisk rate with Mary Waldron in aggressive mood scoring 41 of the opening partnership of 54. All the batters got a start and made double figures, although only Gaby Lewis (26), Lucy Boylan (25) and Shauna Kavanagh (24) got into the twenties.

Credit to Ireland that they saw out the fifty overs against the South African attack, finishing with only 6 wickets down and this will give them heart as they face Zimbabwe in the 3rd/4th place match on Sunday.